Please post your VOTE for up to 4 {four} of the questions provided in this thread, letting us know which ones you most want to see asked on June 4th. Keep in mind that your votes in round 83 do not count in this round, so if your question is still on the list you may want to vote for it again.

Also, feel free to post new questions. For reference, here are Hasbro's answers to previous SSG questions (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=2665); and from other sites (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=2676). The questions we asked last round can be found here (http://forums.sirstevesguide.com/showthread.php?p=725342#post725342).

Current questions (vote for up to 4):

- The Clone Wars line has been a boon for its droid designs, but is following suit from the realistic lines with the sagging leg problems. This is especially noticeable on Clone Wars Battle Droids and General Grievous. Yet in the same line, IG-86 and the Commando Droid don't suffer this, the difference being that they have ankle joints while the BD and Grievous figures do not. It seems like the joints take stress off the thin leg elements helping cope with wilting issues, and that's a pretty big deal. Obviously including either knee or ankle articulation on them isn't a cheap undertaking, but it seems like a necessary one in the scheme of things since if a figure can't stand up, it's going to be far less fun. Any possibility of including one type of lower leg articulation or another on future versions of these figures as this partial solution to this long-time problem?
- Have you considered sealing magnets into figures' feet and including metal stands to avoid the numerous problems that have come up with footpeg holes over the years? Kotobukiya is doing that with their new ARTFX+ line of statue kits to great success, and although 3.75" figures are a smaller medium, magnetic feet would go well with your action figure line with all its challenges keeping figures standing.
- We now have the deluxe Anakin with Desert Sport Skiff, and us old-fogey collectors who have been around since 1996 are quite surprised to see that accessory's return. It wasn't exactly popular back in the day, its styling wasn't that Star Warsy, and its wobbly guns didn't help much, yet now we have it back for a whole new generation of Star Wars collectors. The other 1996 deluxe releases - Crowd Control Stormtrooper, Han Solo with Flight Pack, and Boba Fett with Mega Jetpack of Doom - weren't exactly crowd-pleasers either, but will we be seeing any of them re-released? Though the idea of a small vehicle for Anakin makes sense, re-releasing this piece seems like such an odd choice. Could you guide us through the thought process on this one? Did the failure of the original influence the decision at all?
- On the latest TIE Interceptor's packaging, the box art on the front has a highly-detailed ship which is not actually representing the toy, the back of the box imagery does that. However, while the new cockpit pod is a great improvement, that art highlights the wings being the same existing designs we've had for the last 3 decades, and their size and lack of detail really shows compared to the new pod. Granted, you've just released a TIE Interceptor so it's not like we're going to see new wings next week. But hypothetically, how far in the future might fans have to wait to get a set of updated TIE Interceptor wings to match the quality of the new pod?
- With the 2008 Medical Frigate Luke figure, the figure almost fits the bill for Echo Base recovery scene Luke, if not for the open mechanical arm, and the different likeness with scars and Hoth hairstyle. That scene also has another character whose figure is in dire need of updating: 2-1B, who hasn't seen a new figure design in over a decade. With a Recovery Luke figure, it'd just be a new head required (the body and undamaged forearm tooling already exists from the VOTC figure) so you could also include the mask he wore in that scene's less-infamous cut footage (we're not asking you to make kissing Luke & Leia, you'll have to decide if you're twisted enough to go there ;-) ). So, any chances of knocking the Echo Base Recovery scene out of the park by making new 2-1B and Luke recovery figures?
- Seeing as how the McQuarrie concept figures have been re-released in boxed sets to decent reception, has there been any consideration of doing a similar boxed set for the other concept figures out there? The Doug Chiang General Grievous, the Joe Johnston Snowtrooper, the McQuarrie IG-88, and the 2 Episode III concept Anakin and Ki-Adi-Mundi would make a nice 3rd set to the concept figure series, don't you think?
- One of your answers from the April 8th round said that, as we expected, due to the troubles with running changes, there will be no more of those running-change figures. The statement is clear, running changes from wave to wave didn't work out too well during the TLC line, but it leaves open the question of whether simultaneous, planned production variations could be released concurrently within the same wave. The line has done so before, similar to the way the TSC line's Endor Rebel Troopers were released, or some Saga Legends troopers, the Imperial Officer head variants, the Clone Wars Micro Series clones; and the GI Joe line has more recently had success with concurrently-released chase figures as well. While concurrent variants do make specifics a little tougher to get, it provides a lot more flexibility for army-building troops without waiting years to release a variant. So would those sorts of simultaneous-production, same-wave variant figures still be a possibility, or do these go down in flames along with the running change figures?
- The Clone Wars series has given Hasbro the opportunity to release many cool vehicles that both collectors and kids have been asking for. These vehicles are especially great due to the fact that they work for both the animated and realistic figure line. Given the popularity of the series, what additional vehicles would you look to do from seasons 1 and 2? Are there any vehicles from the OT, PT, and EU that you would like to see used in season 3 so they could use that as a springboard to make their toys? (For example, would you like to see the StarViper/Virago show up in the show so you could make a Virago vehicle toy?)
- The idea of the ball-hinge wrist has a lot of potential, but one of the drawbacks of using it on such a small joint is that it intrudes deep into the hand, using up space in the palm. That, in turn, ends up mangling some accessories, especially those clear-banded into their hands in the packaging, warping blaster grips to the point of making them bent and twisted beyond imagination. Was any consideration given to making the weapons fit that hand design, or just doing away with the wrist articulation on the first generation CW Clone mold which is still in use for some of the new Clone Trooper figures? Considering the aesthetic issue, the lack of space, and the greater expense, is this point of articulation pretty much dead after the CW Commander Stone mold takes over the rest of the new clone figures, or are there other animated or realistic figures that could still get this articulation in the future?
- Have you considered taking figures from the Comic Packs and putting them together into Battlepacks with perhaps 1 new figure, and making these sets exclusive to someone more focused on a comic-friendly audience, such as Diamond Distribution or one of the many fine e-tailers out there? This could help spur interest in the line along and satiate EU fans who crave more of their favorite characters. Star Wars comics still have a big audience, SW: Legacy is Dark Horse's 2nd best-selling line (despite the line apparently ending soon). If not Battlepacks, what about more Comic 2 Packs exclusive to those outlets with more focus on reusing the parts created for the line for new characters or at least character updates, since they're not likely to get used in the mainline?
- Hypothetically, if Hasbro were to produce a new Slave I based on its recent outing in The Clone Wars animation, and assuming this hypothetical ship were to meet its intended sales goals, how long after its release would collectors have to wait until they would see one based on the ship's deco from the Original Trilogy era?
- What's with the new smaller-hilt electronic role-play lightsabers Hasbro is now offering? These are in open-box packaging somewhat similar to the blasters, but far more compact, yet they aren't cheaper than other electronic sabers in the line. Are these smaller to better fit hands of younger kids, are they trying to be more accurate to the original props than previous Hasbro sabers? Don't they seem too small for the pricepoint, is there any concern they may cannibalize sales from the existing role-play electronic sabers, and why have open box packaging without a try-me feature?
- Recent Hasbro images show the upcoming Saga Legends Battle Droid 2-pack both using the mold based on the new Battle Droid figures from the Target Geonosis Arena Showdown sets. Is that what we will actually be used to make this Saga Legends 2-pack? If so, will we see any of the issues we raised in a previous Q&A addressed, like a left arm that can hold the blaster similar to the Firefighter Droid from The Clone Wars line, or properly-sized eyes for every droid, or the neck piece facing the right way? Also, will we be seeing any running deco changes on this set, switching from Geonosis red to Naboo tan? Army-building Battle Droids only in red and at a 1:1 ratio with their commanders would be quite limiting, and many previous Saga Legends army builders have enjoyed running changes like this without any problems expressed.
- Why is it that when figures, especially Jedi, have separate soft-plastic "skirts", some figures will have slits designed into the sides so they can enjoy a full range of hip motion for sitting, action poses, or piloting vehicles, while other figures with similar "skirt" elements do not have those slits up the sides? Examples of this immobile skirt design include the TAC ROTS Mace Windu, the very recent EU Jaina Solo, last year's Stass Alie. Those figures would all be better served with either a split plastic skirt, or a more free soft-goods skirt when costing allows it, wouldn't you agree?
- The initial Force Unleashed figures were released well before the actual game, and many of the cooler figures sold quickly and were hard to find by the time the game was released. Of the major characters, the Jumptrooper, Evo Trooper, Vader, and Galen Marek have seen a few re-releases, while Juno Eclipse (sadly) still languishes on store shelves in many areas. One figure that was never re-released though is Rahm Kota, who was one of the first figures to vanish upon the initial release, and has since appeared in other Star Wars media, including a different video game. Given that he is likely to appear in a major role in The Force Unleashed II later this year and the 2 exclusive TFU 5-packs were released in May, are there any chances Kota might be re-released as a Greatest Hits figure, or perhaps even updated with a new, more actor-accurate and 'blinded' head sculpt, as well as a deactivated saber hilt for his shoulder scabbard?
- The Clone Wars line has been a great addition to Star Wars collecting, but with all Hasbro's focus on Clone Trooper figures, there has been a lot of focus on command-level trooper figures (Gree, Cody, Rex, Bly, Stone, Thire) while lower-ranked clones, especially generic white clones, haven't seen pegs in a while. Will we be seeing more standard white grunts on pegs anytime soon to give the numerous commander figures more troops to lead? Running changes on headsculpts for grunts could make for a broader, more exciting collecting and army-building experiences, and you already have a broad library of head designs to choose from (which can be swapped in and out as needed elsewhere since they wouldn't be named-character clones), they could even be offered either as single packs or multi-packs. Will we be seeing the new helmet designs, the new Cmdr Stone armor designs, new headsculpts under the helmets, other weapons and accessories mixed into the grunt-level troopers put out there?
- Now that you've made Galactic Heroes figures of Max Rebo and Droopy McCool, there is a hole in the band. Why did Sy Snootles get left out of the set? Might Hasbro consider rounding out the original trio of palace band members by making a Sy Snootles Galactic Heroes figure? She would go great in a 2 pack with any of Jabba's more prominent minions (Tessek or Ree-Yees for instance) or perhaps Oola or cloak-wearing Luke. Seeing as these more obscure Galactic Heroes figures are fan-driven, if you were to make a Sy figure would it be based on her classic "vintage" appearance?
- Regarding the 2002 Saga Deluxe Speeder Bike, previously you had told us the tooling for it had been misplaced in one of the factories you work with, and since around that time the only Speeder Bike mold released has been the 1983 Kenner version. Yet it's been confirmed in recently-released Hasbro imagery as well as other sources that the new AT-AT comes with that '02 Saga Speeder Bike in Hoth colors, conspicuously around the same time that the bike's '03 Clone Wars remold is getting reused as well as the new deluxe Plo Koon Speeder Bike. Has the '02 Saga Speeder Bike tooling actually been found after years of searching, and if so, what's the story behind that discovery? (We're picturing Derryl swinging through warehouse aisles via whip checking nondescript slab after giant metal slab a la Indiana Jones.) If the tooling really has been found, why has the Hoth Assault battle pack been shown with the old '83 version, why did the recent TRU-exclusive deluxe Speeder Bike set use that '83 mold? And will the newer Speeder Bike finally be used for a screen-accurate ROTJ bike in the near future?
- Hasbro hasn't really elaborated on your take of the most recent ToyFare Star Wars fans' choice poll finalists, other than to say in a very broad sense that it was clear collectors were most interested in all-new characters over resculpts and that the results would provide a "road map" for future lineups. So specifically, apart from Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon whom you've already addressed, are there any totally unlikely candidates on the list such as the Queen / handmaiden figures? Any choices that really made you wince because you know they would be retail poison? If you want to avoid giving away too much info now by addressing each character individually could you at least tell us how many characters from each source (i.e. OT, PT and EU) off the finalists list will be turned into figures in the next 18 months or so?
- Since we're all thinking about the topic of Star Wars anniversaries lately, May 1st, 2011 will mark the 20th anniversary of the release of Timothy Zahn's novel, Heir to the Empire, the first part of the Thrawn trilogy. Whether one loves the Expanded Universe or hates it, a strong argument can be made that this book started a resurgence for interest in Star Wars and was the foundation for the modern Expanded Universe movement, so it deserves some sort of recognition and maybe even some action figure treatment. With that in mind, would you consider doing some sort of commemorative set or just slipping a few HTTE-themed figures into one of The Vintage Collection waves?

Vote now, and suggest new questions too. Thanks for participating!

Darth Marco

05-07-2010, 11:55 AM

I will vote for #11 for now.

Just wanted to mention that April 24, I went to Toys'R'Us in the Bronx and bought the EU wave (Final wave of the BAD Legacy Collection). When I went again to Toy'R'US on May 1st all of the EU wave were gone from the pegs. I heard that a lot of collectors waited for May 1st and were fustrated because a lot of Toy'R'Us stores did not have them on that date. But my understanding was I always try to go the week before to see if they have the new waves in stock. I did hear that Hasbro is sending more shipments of the EU wave to Toy'R'Us across the country, hope that every Star Wars fan can get the hands on these because they are really great. Super articulated and great details on these action figures make them probably or my opinion the best wave of the Legacy Collection. This is a wave I could enjoy with my kids.

DarkJedi5

05-07-2010, 02:35 PM

7 - variants
13 - Battle Droids

For now.

El Chuxter

05-07-2010, 02:48 PM

I don't have final wording, but DarkArtist had a good basis for a question in another thread:

hey maybe that's a question for ask Hasbro....where do you get your research data from to determine which lines are succesful and which lines need to be cancelled.

Maybe we could, if it's not too over-the-top, mention that the comic packs, which are canceled, appear to be doing much better than the Geonosis 2-packs, which aren't.

Captain Rex

05-07-2010, 04:34 PM

I like 1, 8, 9 and 11. These are the best for Clone Wars fans.

Daryl VayDar

05-09-2010, 08:57 AM

7, 11, and 13

I've got a question brewing on carry-forward figures, but it's not quite articulated enough. Here are the basics in case anyone else wants to run with some wording for it:

With each new assortment, a large number of the figures "carry forward" from previous waves, resulting in situations where new cases are put on the retail shelves, only to become essentially old product after a few collectors buy the new figures. The figures that carry forward are usually main characters, or new figures that you perceive (in the planning stages) will have demand.
Could the carry forwards be reconsidered, putting more of an emphasis on multiples of the new figures in the new assortments, and moving the older figures to either case revisions or better yet, the following years Saga Legends line? This would create more "new" product in your main line and make the Saga Legends line stronger because it could actually contain recent, in-demand figures alongside the obligatory Vaders and troop builders.

JediTricks

05-09-2010, 03:17 PM

I don't have final wording, but DarkArtist had a good basis for a question in another thread:

hey maybe that's a question for ask Hasbro....where do you get your research data from to determine which lines are succesful and which lines need to be cancelled.
Maybe we could, if it's not too over-the-top, mention that the comic packs, which are canceled, appear to be doing much better than the Geonosis 2-packs, which aren't.We know where their research comes from. About 8 years ago or so, Hasbro helped create a national sales tracking system for the major retailers' inventory, so they get data on what's selling via UPC. They also work with retailers to track sales by patterns, and retailers give feedback on what they do and don't want to see. As for what gets canceled, that's internal based on sales tracking, and their costs vs their wholesale pricing based on what they believe the market will bear (which is why a line like Unleashed can be modestly popular and still get canned). They sometimes will put a little more time into developing a brand and keep it around longer, believing it'll find its niche eventually (like Titaniums), but that's the long and short of it. Anything else we should ask on this matter?

7, 11, and 13

I've got a question brewing on carry-forward figures, but it's not quite articulated enough. Here are the basics in case anyone else wants to run with some wording for it:

With each new assortment, a large number of the figures "carry forward" from previous waves, resulting in situations where new cases are put on the retail shelves, only to become essentially old product after a few collectors buy the new figures. The figures that carry forward are usually main characters, or new figures that you perceive (in the planning stages) will have demand.
Could the carry forwards be reconsidered, putting more of an emphasis on multiples of the new figures in the new assortments, and moving the older figures to either case revisions or better yet, the following years Saga Legends line? This would create more "new" product in your main line and make the Saga Legends line stronger because it could actually contain recent, in-demand figures alongside the obligatory Vaders and troop builders.This has been asked many times, and ultimately they've said in short version that production limits them to making only so many at a time, so initial cases go out with less new figures vs. waiting for figures to build up to fully fill a case. This also leaves room to adjust the product levels later if they find initial interest is higher or lower than expected.

As for the Saga Legends side, the idea is to sell figures to kids, not to get the latest and greatest out there. A lot of their molds end up in demand in other places, like repacks and Battle Packs and such, so they have to assign specific molds to Saga Legends to keep them in rotation there lest they use them elsewhere. That means new figures could end up getting sucked out of their initial waves to go into production in Saga Legends (which has a different production schedule than regular) before even finding its legs thus being "proven".

clone157

05-09-2010, 04:56 PM

8, 10, 11 for now, thanks!

DarkJedi5

05-09-2010, 05:07 PM

Might we be able to update question 13 now that there are early images out there that seem to confirm our worst fears?

Mr. JabbaJohnL

05-09-2010, 05:53 PM

Might we be able to update question 13 now that there are early images out there that seem to confirm our worst fears?
I think the question holds up. The early images showed them with eyes, and the carded samples don't. So it's still worth asking, if only for the parts about the running change.

I'll go with 7, 11, 13, and 14.

El Chuxter

05-12-2010, 11:04 PM

I'm borderline hesitant about this, since it's in regard to just one character, but I wouldn't mind getting a second shot at it. Feel free to correct any factual errors herein:

"The initial Force Unleashed figures were released well before the actual game, and many of the 'cooler' figures sold quickly and were hard to find by the time the game was released, while others didn't do nearly so well. Of the major characters, the Jumptrooper, Evo Trooper, and Galen Marek have seen a few re-releases, while Juno Eclipse (sadly) still languishes on store shelves in many areas. One figure that was never re-released, though, is Rahm Kota, who was one of the first figures to vanish upon the initial release, and has since appeared in other games. Given that he is likely to appear in a major role in The Force Unleashed II later this year, are there any chances Kota might be re-released as a Legends figure, or perhaps even updated with a new 'blinded' head sculpt?"

DarkArtist

05-13-2010, 10:01 AM

I'm borderline hesitant about this, since it's in regard to just one character, but I wouldn't mind getting a second shot at it. Feel free to correct any factual errors herein:

"The initial Force Unleashed figures were released well before the actual game, and many of the 'cooler' figures sold quickly and were hard to find by the time the game was released, while others didn't do nearly so well. Of the major characters, the Jumptrooper, Evo Trooper, and Galen Marek have seen a few re-releases, while Juno Eclipse (sadly) still languishes on store shelves in many areas. One figure that was never re-released, though, is Rahm Kota, who was one of the first figures to vanish upon the initial release, and has since appeared in other games. Given that he is likely to appear in a major role in The Force Unleashed II later this year, are there any chances Kota might be re-released as a Legends figure, or perhaps even updated with a new 'blinded' head sculpt?"

great question Chux..... I'd defiantely vote for that one. been wanted a blind battle damaged Rahm Kota since the game first debuted....

JT, I would still consider asking the market research question anyway... times have changed in 8 years and I would love to hear Hasbro's answer on how they determine what will sell and what will not based on figures from almost a decade ago. The Comic Packs, Large Playsets.... it seems to me that fans want them but Hasbro says they don't sell... how do they know this today if they are basing it on research from 8 years ago. I think Hasbro needs to re-invent their research on large playsets since we have now been treated to 4 large vehicles (3 of which have sold really well, and the 4th which I'm sure will sell just as well). If Hasbro can justify creating vehicles whose price tags start at $95.00 and up why not start creating small modular playsets that range from $20-$40 with a unique action figure (which will help sales) and go from there. if the sets don't sell after a year and their research shows that it's a failure then the fans will have to accept that....But if the sets sell and continue to be made well and offer both realism for the fans and playability for the kids then the playsets can be a gold mine for Hasbro.

Darth Metalmute

05-13-2010, 11:05 AM

8 and 11.

I would like to add a new question:

With the release of the last legacy line being an TRU exclusive, what was the decision making process to include 6 previously released figures with the 6 all-new EU figures? After the first two week of release, it has been common to find (at those TRU's that got the cases in) for the 6 re-hashed figures to remain on the pegs (especially another shirtless Maul) while collectors and children are finding it hard to find the all new figures due to second hand sellers. These peg warmers are taking up space for new cases to be place out on the floor as well as new cases to be ordered. Is it possible to one day see a case of these figures without the re-released figures?

JT, when and if you edit this question, can you make it sound angry/irratated?:thumbsup:

DarkArtist

05-13-2010, 03:39 PM

JT I would like to add a question to the list:

The Clone Wars line is a great addition to the expanding Star Wars action figure community. With that being said, The Clone Trooper is one of the foremost characters in the series and since the start of the line we have been treated to some really cool Clone figures, ie Gree, Cody, Rex, Denal, Bly, Ponds, Stone etc as well as a few generic clones. However lately there are more commander figures on the pegs then the standard stand alone white generic clone. Is there any chance of these guys returning to furture assortments with maybe some more articulation and perhaps various head sculpts. I know you stated that running variations would be cancelled but what about releasing several clones at once or perhaps releasing several different 2-3 packs (similiar to the ones released during AOTC) where the clones would be the plain white clones just with different face/head sculpts.

JediTricks

05-13-2010, 05:43 PM

Questions 15 - 16 added.

I'm borderline hesitant about this, since it's in regard to just one character, but I wouldn't mind getting a second shot at it. Feel free to correct any factual errors herein:

"The initial Force Unleashed figures were released well before the actual game, and many of the 'cooler' figures sold quickly and were hard to find by the time the game was released, while others didn't do nearly so well. Of the major characters, the Jumptrooper, Evo Trooper, and Galen Marek have seen a few re-releases, while Juno Eclipse (sadly) still languishes on store shelves in many areas. One figure that was never re-released, though, is Rahm Kota, who was one of the first figures to vanish upon the initial release, and has since appeared in other games. Given that he is likely to appear in a major role in The Force Unleashed II later this year, are there any chances Kota might be re-released as a Legends figure, or perhaps even updated with a new 'blinded' head sculpt?"
This would be a "Greatest Hits", not a "Saga Legends" figure, because it's not a main character or popular with the kiddies.

I am tempted to add this, but you correctly pointed out it's a singular entry which makes it limiting. But I think considering we just got a re-release of more characters, he's a fairly major character that could require it. Ok, I'll retool it and add it.

Don't forget that you need to express a vote for it as I am not automatically counting votes for added questions anymore.

great question Chux..... I'd defiantely vote for that one. been wanted a blind battle damaged Rahm Kota since the game first debuted....Good to hear, that helped change my mind on that.

JT, I would still consider asking the market research question anyway... times have changed in 8 years and I would love to hear Hasbro's answer on how they determine what will sell and what will not based on figures from almost a decade ago. The Comic Packs, Large Playsets.... it seems to me that fans want them but Hasbro says they don't sell... how do they know this today if they are basing it on research from 8 years ago. I think Hasbro needs to re-invent their research on large playsets since we have now been treated to 4 large vehicles (3 of which have sold really well, and the 4th which I'm sure will sell just as well). If Hasbro can justify creating vehicles whose price tags start at $95.00 and up why not start creating small modular playsets that range from $20-$40 with a unique action figure (which will help sales) and go from there. if the sets don't sell after a year and their research shows that it's a failure then the fans will have to accept that....But if the sets sell and continue to be made well and offer both realism for the fans and playability for the kids then the playsets can be a gold mine for Hasbro.The sales data isn't from 8 years ago, 8 years ago is when they helped build the sales tracking system. The data they get is, I believe, "real-time" current flowing data that constantly updates as it continuously tracks. Fans don't make up much sales power, just because a small but vocal audience wants something doesn't mean it'll sell. The staying power of the line is in the hands of casual collectors, and as we saw in '08, when they walked away, the hardcore fans could not keep the line afloat on their own. Comic Packs have been backed up in stores for years now, WM still has sets from 2 years ago. Playsets haven't sold well for years in any brand unfortunately, there hasn't been an example to buck that trend in boys toys that I have heard of in a decade. Modular playsets was an idea I threw around for a while after Hasbro bought Galoob (Galoob was working on the concept with Action Fleet), but Hasbro's recent answer is perfectly reasonable - expensive to create modular tooling for something casual collectors won't buy because it seems "incomplete" and small, and the tooling is large and expensive by comparison to figures.

The AT-TE and Falcon sold ok, but "well" is an overstatement, they were abundantly available at sales prices over a year after release, that's not "well". And they're aggressive vehicles, that helps a lot, they're exciting fighting vehicles (wasn't that an '80s cartoon? :D). It's apples and oranges with modular playsets. The idea of risking hundreds of thousands of dollars to test the waters on a concept that has shown no legs at market doesn't seem like an argument I can sell to Hasbro, they have already done a lot of answering on the issue and from a business perspective, they have done far better bulletproofing against the question than we can against them on that topic.

I would like to add a new question:

With the release of the last legacy line being an TRU exclusive, what was the decision making process to include 6 previously released figures with the 6 all-new EU figures? After the first two week of release, it has been common to find (at those TRU's that got the cases in) for the 6 re-hashed figures to remain on the pegs (especially another shirtless Maul) while collectors and children are finding it hard to find the all new figures due to second hand sellers. These peg warmers are taking up space for new cases to be place out on the floor as well as new cases to be ordered. Is it possible to one day see a case of these figures without the re-released figures?

JT, when and if you edit this question, can you make it sound angry/irratated?:thumbsup:Hasbro has already addressed this, basically. The case was planned and filled before the big retailers pulled out orders, forcing Hasbro to switch gears to TRU-exclusivity. Production on the initial case assortments was focused on the same business model they use in regular cases, hence the carry-over of previous waves' figures, they can't make enough figures at first to fill whole cases, so they spread the releases across multiple wave revisions and into later waves to ensure a full run while meeting timeline goals. With Hasbro's announcement that they've seen the interest and are ramping up production to fulfill more orders from TRU, I suspect we'll see a revised case assortment for them that won't include Luke and TPM Obi-Wan, but for now, the above is the reason why we're getting the cases we're seeing. Besides, if it wasn't for that, Utris M'Toc wouldn't have gotten released.

JT I would like to add a question to the list:

The Clone Wars line is a great addition to the expanding Star Wars action figure community. With that being said, The Clone Trooper is one of the foremost characters in the series and since the start of the line we have been treated to some really cool Clone figures, ie Gree, Cody, Rex, Denal, Bly, Ponds, Stone etc as well as a few generic clones. However lately there are more commander figures on the pegs then the standard stand alone white generic clone. Is there any chance of these guys returning to furture assortments with maybe some more articulation and perhaps various head sculpts. I know you stated that running variations would be cancelled but what about releasing several clones at once or perhaps releasing several different 2-3 packs (similiar to the ones released during AOTC) where the clones would be the plain white clones just with different face/head sculpts.I've added this with a reworking. I am not sure if I got too outside of what you were going for, I got a little into the rhythm of bolstering the question and may have taken it outside your intention, so LMK if you feel it needs changing.

Also, if you wish to vote for it, make sure to do so separately.

El Chuxter

05-13-2010, 05:54 PM

Will do, JT. How long do I have, so as not to have to come back and say, "I'd like to change ___ for ___, which was asked after I voted"?

JediTricks

05-13-2010, 06:52 PM

Until around 5pm, June 3rd.

I really don't mind vote changes so long as they're in the format you supplied though. As long as the voter tells me which question they're pulling a vote from, it's easy as (eating) pie.

Darth Metalmute

05-14-2010, 08:32 AM

Questions for Hasbro.

Dear Hasbro,
Just saw the new pics of the upcoming Darth Maul figure. How many Darth Mauls must the public not buy, in order for you to stop making them? At least this time, he has his shirt on.

The New Clone Wars waves have been hitting the states and certain figures have been next to impossible to find, ie Darth Sidious, Aayla Secura, Hondo etc. Are these waves going to continue to ship with the new packaging ?

DarkArtist

05-14-2010, 10:42 AM

I cast my vote for the following:

2, 10, 15, & 16

JT the wording on question #16 is great. thanks for adding it.

RamaSha

05-18-2010, 02:46 PM

I'm really new here, but I'd like to submit a question. It may have been answered already since I have yet to be read through all the Q&As from the 2 years I've been out of collecting. If it has has just ignore it please.

Anyway here is my question:

We have already been told that the Scramble on Yavin Battle Pack won't be reissued due to the change in size of the packaging on the Battle Pack, but many collector are still looking for this set. Is it possible that we may see Garven Dreis, R5-K6, Rebel Ground Crew, or Rebel Transport in any other way in 2010/2011 line up? Be it exclusive, single carded, or some other way of release.

Also I'd like to vote for 4, 11, and my own if it gets accepted.

JediTricks

05-18-2010, 03:46 PM

I'm really new here, but I'd like to submit a question. It may have been answered already since I have yet to be read through all the Q&As from the 2 years I've been out of collecting. If it has has just ignore it please.

Anyway here is my question:

We have already been told that the Scramble on Yavin Battle Pack won't be reissued due to the change in size of the packaging on the Battle Pack, but many collector are still looking for this set. Is it possible that we may see Garven Dreis, R5-K6, Rebel Ground Crew, or Rebel Transport in any other way in 2010/2011 line up? Be it exclusive, single carded, or some other way of release.

Also I'd like to vote for 4, 11, and my own if it gets accepted.

Welcome aboard! This has somewhat been asked across a couple answers including one of ours, I'll post:
11-16-09
CollectionStation.com: Will you be reissuing the Scramble on Yavin Battle Pack in the new packaging design? Although a sleeper at first, it seems to be very popular and now many collectors themselves are scrambling trying to find it. We know you said that future Battle Packs would go back to the kid-focused styles, but as this is existing tooling and it's popular and it had a relatively short run due to the packaging change-over, it should get a re-release in the '09 packaging, don't you think? If not, what about reusing the vehicle in the Clone Wars deluxe figure & vehicle assortment? You've got other "just out of frame" vehicles there, heck, even the Desert Sport Skiff. Is it hard to believe that Clone pilots might use a transport like this?

Hasbro: We will not be releasing Scramble on Yavin in the new line look. It *has* been a very well-received pack among collectors, we think as much for the combination of elements (a new pilot, Rebel tech, and Astro droid) as well as the vehicle itself. However, it's too late to get it into the lineup as a re-release for next year, and the Fall 2011 packs will have a different footprint making a re-release impossible. As for releasing the vehicle in the Deluxe Figure and Vehicle Assortment, that's an interesting suggesting and we'll take a look to see if it makes sense.

April 8th, 2010

DewbackPatrol.com: The Scramble on Yavin Battle Pack was probably the most successful battle pack in recent memory and it's due to the Rebel Technician. Are there any plans to either re-release this Battle Pack (I saw it in the stores only twice and on the secondary market this set sells for $80-$90) or sell the Rebel Technician single carded? He's an easy enough figure to release in 2 versions just swap the heads. Given all the rebel ships produced over the years many fans would buy multiples to tend to their vehicles - I'd buy a ton! What are the chances that this figure hits the shelves or pegs again? Or how about putting all the troop building figures that you could be releasing in one giant 10 pack: Rebel tech, Hoth rebel, Bespin guards...etc?
Hasbro: We don't have any plans to re-release Scramble on Yavin right now, but we do know about the secondary market demand and don't rule it out, perhaps as an account exclusive. We will not be releasing the Rebel Technician on a basic figure card unless we find that we can't re-release the Battle Pack. In that case, we'd look at the possibilities.That said, if you can think of something that isn't covered here and make it into its own question, give it a shot and I'll gladly consider it.

RamaSha

05-18-2010, 04:30 PM

Well my concern was more for the fate of Garven Dreis and R5-K6. Since they are reuses of existing molds I am kinda afraid they won't be offered again. I am less concerned about the Rebel Transport and Ground Crew as there would be lots of ways to get that back out on the market.

But that being said I think the 2nd answer you posted is about as good as I can hope to get from Hasbro right now. They aren't going to consider any other means of release until they see if they can reissue it as an exclusive.

sonofsokol

05-18-2010, 04:49 PM

I will vote for 2, 15, and 16. Thanks!

El Chuxter

05-19-2010, 02:09 PM

Regarding #15, should we leave it as-is, or incorporate the Shadow Guard (who was probably the quickest of all to vanish, and never was re-released), Maris Brood (who'd better show up in the second--I see what y'all mean about a dropped plot point), and even S***-Kicked-Out-Of-Him P**** Vader (who is, well, Vader, but not the same Vader they've released three million times this year)?

Mr. JabbaJohnL

05-19-2010, 03:35 PM

Regarding #15, should we leave it as-is, or incorporate the Shadow Guard (who was probably the quickest of all to vanish, and never was re-released), Maris Brood (who'd better show up in the second--I see what y'all mean about a dropped plot point), and even S***-Kicked-Out-Of-Him P**** Vader (who is, well, Vader, but not the same Vader they've released three million times this year)?
Battle Damaged Vader was released twice, so for you to ask for a third release would be downright hypocritical. ;) :D

El Chuxter

05-19-2010, 03:53 PM

He was? I didn't remember that. I'm not especially interested in it, but wasn't sure if it might help the chances of getting an answer to wedge him in. If he was released twice already, though, forget about it. :) Kota's the only one I'd want now, though I'd definitely grab the Shadow Guard, and, if he were on sale somewhere, a damaged Vader.

El Chuxter

05-19-2010, 04:01 PM

It does look like even the re-release is fetching premium prices, so I'm guessing someone out there wants it.

Darth Metalmute

05-19-2010, 06:01 PM

Shadow Guard was a pain to find. I found the first one right away but it took me three months to find a second one. Now, my two guards are protecting the arm of Justin Verlander.

Cane_Adiss

05-20-2010, 03:21 AM

Now that Hasbro has finally made Galactic Heroes of Max Rebo and Droopy McCool, might Hasbro consider rounding out the original trio of palace band members and make a Sy Snootles Galactic Hero? She would go great in a 2 pack with any of Jabba's more prominent minions (Tessek or Ree-Yees for instance) or perhaps Oola, Luke or Lando. And if she's in the cards, would it be possible to base her on her original "vintage" appearance?

and also:

Hasbro never really elaborated on their take of the most recent Toy Fair polls finalists, other than to say in a very broad sense that it was clear collectors were most interested in all-new characters over resculpts and that the results would provide a "road map" for future lineups. So specifically, apart from Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon, are there any totally unlikely candidates on the list such as the Queens/ handmaidens? Any choices that really made you wince because you know they would be retail poison? Basically could Hasbro run down the list and give us a brief commentary on each finalist like they did for the last poll and give us a rough idea of Hasbro's plans for each character?

Mr. JabbaJohnL

05-22-2010, 12:13 AM

Okay, I'm perplexed, so how about this one:

*It's time to unravel the mystery of the speeder bike! On numerous occasions in the Q&A, various sites have asked about possibly releasing a new speeder bike based on the mold released in 2002, which included a Clone Trooper and was generally superior to the mold used repeatedly since 1983. To our dismay, we were told that the 2002 mold has been lost, and that an all-new speeder bike remains a distant dream. However, in the recent images Hasbro sent to several collector websites, a glimmer of hope appears. In both the boxed and loose images of the new AT-AT, the included speeder bike appears to be based on the 2002 mold, with everything from its lack of T-bar to its proper handlebars. However, the Toy Fair slideshow presentation oddly seems to include one image of the 1983 mold coming with the AT-AT and another featuring the 2002 mold coming with the AT-AT, and the model on display in the show room was the 1983 mold. Additionally, the Hoth Assault battle pack appears to be coming with the 1983 version, indicating that the original mold will still be in use going forward. So, what's the deal here? Has the mold been found and put back into use? Or was an old 2002 toy repainted for these images in the hopes of giving some collectors unfounded heart attacks? If it's the former, then can we finally look forward to some screen-accurate Return of the Jedi speeder bikes in the near future?

The Space Outlaw

05-23-2010, 02:47 PM

11 is the question that sticks in my mind right now. Any news, confirmation, etc. of a BS1 would be very welcome.

JediTricks

05-24-2010, 04:30 PM

Question 17 added.

Well my concern was more for the fate of Garven Dreis and R5-K6. Since they are reuses of existing molds I am kinda afraid they won't be offered again. I am less concerned about the Rebel Transport and Ground Crew as there would be lots of ways to get that back out on the market.

But that being said I think the 2nd answer you posted is about as good as I can hope to get from Hasbro right now. They aren't going to consider any other means of release until they see if they can reissue it as an exclusive.
I see what you mean. I think their answers about dialing back on pilots, and less astromechs without the BAD series, also kinda doomed their chances for now.

I think if we don't hear anything about an exclusive re-release at Comic-Con, we would ask about it then. If you remind me, I'll add it.

Regarding #15, should we leave it as-is, or incorporate the Shadow Guard (who was probably the quickest of all to vanish, and never was re-released), Maris Brood (who'd better show up in the second--I see what y'all mean about a dropped plot point), and even S***-Kicked-Out-Of-Him P**** Vader (who is, well, Vader, but not the same Vader they've released three million times this year)?As JabbaJohn mentioned, Vader got a re-release so that'd be out. The Shadow Guard has been pointed out is an inaccurate sculpt and could use work. Maris has that weird torso and her sabers are not entirely accurate, so she too could use work. But I fear if we add them, it'll undermine the thrust of the question as it stands now. What do you think?

Now that Hasbro has finally made Galactic Heroes of Max Rebo and Droopy McCool, might Hasbro consider rounding out the original trio of palace band members and make a Sy Snootles Galactic Hero? She would go great in a 2 pack with any of Jabba's more prominent minions (Tessek or Ree-Yees for instance) or perhaps Oola, Luke or Lando. And if she's in the cards, would it be possible to base her on her original "vintage" appearance?Considering their answers about the Max Rebo band figures not having great demand and selling slowly, I'm a little reluctant to add this. But I will just because there is that hole in the line.

and also:

Hasbro never really elaborated on their take of the most recent Toy Fair polls finalists, other than to say in a very broad sense that it was clear collectors were most interested in all-new characters over resculpts and that the results would provide a "road map" for future lineups. So specifically, apart from Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon, are there any totally unlikely candidates on the list such as the Queens/ handmaidens? Any choices that really made you wince because you know they would be retail poison? Basically could Hasbro run down the list and give us a brief commentary on each finalist like they did for the last poll and give us a rough idea of Hasbro's plans for each character?They virtually never do this, they're often asked for comments on each of a list and they just kinda sum it up with a generic group answer. If you can think of a way to refocus that question to avoid that, I'll consider it.

Okay, I'm perplexed, so how about this one:

*It's time to unravel the mystery of the speeder bike! On numerous occasions in the Q&A, various sites have asked about possibly releasing a new speeder bike based on the mold released in 2002, which included a Clone Trooper and was generally superior to the mold used repeatedly since 1983. To our dismay, we were told that the 2002 mold has been lost, and that an all-new speeder bike remains a distant dream. However, in the recent images Hasbro sent to several collector websites, a glimmer of hope appears. In both the boxed and loose images of the new AT-AT, the included speeder bike appears to be based on the 2002 mold, with everything from its lack of T-bar to its proper handlebars. However, the Toy Fair slideshow presentation oddly seems to include one image of the 1983 mold coming with the AT-AT and another featuring the 2002 mold coming with the AT-AT, and the model on display in the show room was the 1983 mold. Additionally, the Hoth Assault battle pack appears to be coming with the 1983 version, indicating that the original mold will still be in use going forward. So, what's the deal here? Has the mold been found and put back into use? Or was an old 2002 toy repainted for these images in the hopes of giving some collectors unfounded heart attacks? If it's the former, then can we finally look forward to some screen-accurate Return of the Jedi speeder bikes in the near future?I think it's safe to say that they found the mold. They're already using the Clone Wars 2003 retooled version of it with the Plo Koon deluxe figure & vehicle assortment. They have only so many tools to go around though, which may explain the Hoth Assault Battle Pack. I can see asking your question, but I do think the answer is already before us. What would you say if I repurposed it to ask about the saga of finding the mold, and the chances of getting it used with a poncho on the back for ROTJ use?

El Chuxter

05-24-2010, 04:34 PM

Is that a poncho on the speeder bike? If so, this might sound ridiculous, but maybe we could ask about an "EU" Scout Trooper wearing a poncho? It'd be something neat for some folks to buy, and anyone who doesn't want the poncho could take it off.

As for the other question, yousa point well seen. Probably best to leave it with just Rahm right now.

JediTricks

05-24-2010, 05:04 PM

It was a poncho on the 12" Hasbro version. I think there was another source which said it was an emergency blanket, but I can't be sure of where I saw that.

Mr. JabbaJohnL

05-24-2010, 05:23 PM

I think it's safe to say that they found the mold. They're already using the Clone Wars 2003 retooled version of it with the Plo Koon deluxe figure & vehicle assortment. They have only so many tools to go around though, which may explain the Hoth Assault Battle Pack. I can see asking your question, but I do think the answer is already before us. What would you say if I repurposed it to ask about the saga of finding the mold, and the chances of getting it used with a poncho on the back for ROTJ use?
That could work. I figured the 2003 version was a different mold entirely, though based on the 2002 one, seeing as how it has a different front, an added thing on the back behind the seat, and a hole in the top for a blaster, and the Plo version has all the same stuff. Should we add it now, or wait a few rounds until after the AT-AT is released and we know for sure which speeder bike it is?

Darth Metalmute

05-24-2010, 05:46 PM

Can you include something about why if the speeder bike for the 2010 AT-AT and for the 2010 Plo Koon speeder bike is based on the new mold, why couldn't it have been used for the 2010 TRU speeder bike?

vger

05-24-2010, 08:20 PM

10, 14, 15

Cane_Adiss

05-25-2010, 12:56 AM

my votes:

7, 13, 17 and the following revised question if you decide to answer it:

thanks!

Hasbro never really elaborated on their take of the most recent Toy Fair polls finalists, other than to say in a very broad sense that it was clear collectors were most interested in all-new characters over resculpts and that the results would provide a "road map" for future lineups. So specifically, apart from Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon, are there any totally unlikely candidates on the list such as the Queens/ handmaidens? Any choices that really made you wince because you know they would be retail poison? If you want to avoid giving away too much info now by addressing each character individually could you at least tell us how many characters from each source (i.e. OT, PT and EU) will be coming in 2011/2012?

El Chuxter

05-25-2010, 01:06 AM

I'm not just saying this because I'd give the rest of my collection for a Jaxxon figure, but didn't the Hasbro reps say that Jaxxon would be one of their "dream" figures if they could find a way to make him?

Cane_Adiss

05-25-2010, 11:34 AM

I'm not just saying this because I'd give the rest of my collection for a Jaxxon figure, but didn't the Hasbro reps say that Jaxxon would be one of their "dream" figures if they could find a way to make him?

They've said alot of self contradictory things over the years in the q & a's. Yeah I remember them saying that they've warmed to him slightly and that it is now Lucasfilm who is more reluctant. I also remember him being on a list of figures they would likely never do without massive fan support (basically winning a fan choice poll) along with Jocasta and Ben Quadinaros. I think different members of the Star Wars team take turns answering questions which opens the door for a lot of contradiction. I guess we'll have to get furthur clarification so this can be settled once and for all.

I see what you mean. I think their answers about dialing back on pilots, and less astromechs without the BAD series, also kinda doomed their chances for now.

I think if we don't hear anything about an exclusive re-release at Comic-Con, we would ask about it then. If you remind me, I'll add it.

If I remember I will. lol But yeah that's what I am worried about. The fate of those two. The Transport and Rebel where both new molds, they WILL use those again. It's just probably one of the biggest holes in my collection at the moment since I own Red Leader's X-wing, but not this set. I just hope I don't have to wait 10 years for them to new R5 and Pilot mold and get to reuses before I can get them for my fighter, and by that time they'll be a new X-wing as well.

JediTricks

05-27-2010, 03:38 AM

Questions 18-19 added.

Is that a poncho on the speeder bike? If so, this might sound ridiculous, but maybe we could ask about an "EU" Scout Trooper wearing a poncho? It'd be something neat for some folks to buy, and anyone who doesn't want the poncho could take it off.I don't know if there's any visual support for the concept. Do you mean as a Saga Legends or something?

That could work. I figured the 2003 version was a different mold entirely, though based on the 2002 one, seeing as how it has a different front, an added thing on the back behind the seat, and a hole in the top for a blaster, and the Plo version has all the same stuff. Should we add it now, or wait a few rounds until after the AT-AT is released and we know for sure which speeder bike it is?True, that is a remold, I forgot about the box thing on the back. They may have gotten lost and then found together. I think it's a safe question to ask now as the picture from Hasbro's library is CLEARLY the '02 Saga piece. I've added it. I rewrote it to make it a bit smaller, and it was just easier for me to do so by starting fresh with only the ideas. LMK if I missed something.

Can you include something about why if the speeder bike for the 2010 AT-AT and for the 2010 Plo Koon speeder bike is based on the new mold, why couldn't it have been used for the 2010 TRU speeder bike?I'd rather not, looking backwards on this right now seems to me like it'd be a kick in the beans. It may be part of the tale, if they don't address it there I'd consider it then but I'd rather hold off for now unless you can make a compelling argument for using it.

my votes:

7, 13, 17 and the following revised question if you decide to answer it:

thanks!

Hasbro never really elaborated on their take of the most recent Toy Fair polls finalists, other than to say in a very broad sense that it was clear collectors were most interested in all-new characters over resculpts and that the results would provide a "road map" for future lineups. So specifically, apart from Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon, are there any totally unlikely candidates on the list such as the Queens/ handmaidens? Any choices that really made you wince because you know they would be retail poison? If you want to avoid giving away too much info now by addressing each character individually could you at least tell us how many characters from each source (i.e. OT, PT and EU) will be coming in 2011/2012?Ok.

I'm not just saying this because I'd give the rest of my collection for a Jaxxon figure, but didn't the Hasbro reps say that Jaxxon would be one of their "dream" figures if they could find a way to make him?I didn't see that. It was on their "team's choice" poll though.

If I remember I will. lol But yeah that's what I am worried about. The fate of those two. The Transport and Rebel where both new molds, they WILL use those again. It's just probably one of the biggest holes in my collection at the moment since I own Red Leader's X-wing, but not this set. I just hope I don't have to wait 10 years for them to new R5 and Pilot mold and get to reuses before I can get them for my fighter, and by that time they'll be a new X-wing as well.I think there's enough buzz on the original BP that folks won't forget it anytime soon. I'm still kicking myself for not buying it the few times I saw it. If I get the opportunity, I'll even try to ask it in person at Comic-Con.

sebillba

05-27-2010, 07:49 AM

just 13 and 17 for me this round please.

and #19 :)

Darth Metalmute

05-27-2010, 08:47 AM

I'd rather not, looking backwards on this right now seems to me like it'd be a kick in the beans. It may be part of the tale, if they don't address it there I'd consider it then but I'd rather hold off for now unless you can make a compelling argument for using it.

For me, dropping 15 bucks on an inferior item is compelling, especially since they have been using the superior mold this year.

I'm a speeder bike fanatic. I love the vehicle and have many displayed around my office and house. I even have the swing in my garage. I buy everything speeder bike (unless cost is a issue). So to me, it's a slap in the face to re-release the 1983 speeder bike, especially when you are releasing the newer mold for Clone Wars and Hoth in the same year. It's not like the speeder bike has the following of Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon, of which only 6 people will buy. Everyone will buy a speeder bike that is done correctly, possibly 2 or 3 of then.

But I'll hold off until we see what they say.

I'll ammend my votes to 8, 11, and 18.

Mr. JabbaJohnL

05-27-2010, 03:42 PM

True, that is a remold, I forgot about the box thing on the back. They may have gotten lost and then found together. I think it's a safe question to ask now as the picture from Hasbro's library is CLEARLY the '02 Saga piece. I've added it. I rewrote it to make it a bit smaller, and it was just easier for me to do so by starting fresh with only the ideas. LMK if I missed something.
It's good how you did it, but I think for clarity's sake, we should add a bit about Plo Koon:

*Regarding the 2002 Saga Deluxe Speeder Bike, previously you had told us the tooling for it had been misplaced in one of the factories you work with, and since around that time the only Speeder Bike mold released has been the 1983 Kenner version. However, in recently-released Hasbro imagery, the new AT-AT is shown with that '02 Saga Speeder Bike in Hoth colors, and this is present in both the boxed and loose pictures, conspicuously around the same time that the bike's '03 Clone Wars remold is getting reused for Plo Koon's bike as well. Has the '02 Saga Speeder Bike tooling actually been found after years of searching, and if so, what's the story behind that discovery? (We're picturing Derryl swinging through warehouse aisles via whip checking nondescript slab after giant metal slab a la Indiana Jones.) If the tooling really has been found, why has the Hoth Assault battle pack been shown with the old '83 version? And will the newer Speeder Bike finally be used for a screen-accurate ROTJ bike in the near future?

Cane_Adiss

05-27-2010, 03:45 PM

put me down for 19 too! thanks JT!

sonofsokol

05-27-2010, 05:17 PM

I will vote for 2, 15, and 16. Thanks!

I would like to change my votes to 15, 17, 18, and 19. My apologies for any confusion.

bigbarada

05-27-2010, 08:29 PM

A new question for the EU fans out there (of which I'm not one but I still think it's worth asking):

Since we're on the topic of Star Wars anniversaries, May 1st, 2011 will mark the 20th anniversary of the release of Timothy Zahn's novel, Heir to the Empire. Whether you love the Expanded Universe or hate it, you can't argue that this is the book that really started it all, so it deserves some sort of recognition and maybe even some action figure love. With that in mind, would you consider doing some sort of commemorative set or just slipping a few HTTE-themed figures into one of The Vintage Collection waves?

Even if they just respond with "we have no plans at this time..." it might be worth at least planting the seed.

Darth Metalmute

05-28-2010, 08:14 AM

A new question for the EU fans out there (of which I'm not one but I still think it's worth asking):

Since we're on the topic of Star Wars anniversaries, May 1st, 2011 will mark the 20th anniversary of the release of Timothy Zahn's novel, Heir to the Empire. Whether you love the Expanded Universe or hate it, you can't argue that this is the book that really started it all, so it deserves some sort of recognition and maybe even some action figure love. With that in mind, would you consider doing some sort of commemorative set or just slipping a few HTTE-themed figures into one of The Vintage Collection waves?

Even if they just respond with "we have no plans at this time..." it might be worth at least planting the seed.

I love it. And its a perfect time to ask them that. If they hadn't thought of it before, maybe letting them know of the historic series 20th anniversary will get the ball rolling.

JediTricks

05-28-2010, 04:52 PM

Question 20 added.

For me, dropping 15 bucks on an inferior item is compelling, especially since they have been using the superior mold this year.

I'm a speeder bike fanatic. I love the vehicle and have many displayed around my office and house. I even have the swing in my garage. I buy everything speeder bike (unless cost is a issue). So to me, it's a slap in the face to re-release the 1983 speeder bike, especially when you are releasing the newer mold for Clone Wars and Hoth in the same year. It's not like the speeder bike has the following of Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon, of which only 6 people will buy. Everyone will buy a speeder bike that is done correctly, possibly 2 or 3 of then.

But I'll hold off until we see what they say.I'll include it since the question mentions the upcoming battle pack as well and the question has a rewrite going anyway. But they pull that crap all the time, look at Vader or Plo Koon being on the shelves in multiple iterations. I can't buy the '83 mold again, it's far outlived its usefulness, and have told Hasbro as much in Q&A.

That all said, they could just as easily come back and say they found the tooling after the TRU sets were delivered, or that they were run at different factories, or that the '02 version was being run for the AT-AT so it couldn't be used at the same time for the TRU set. All of those are reasonable, and not what I'd consider a "slap in the face". $20 for a deluxe fig & vehicle at TRU, that is a slap in the face.

I'll ammend my votes to 8, 11, and 18.When you add new votes, please don't list your old votes again in this manner, just post the new vote, that way I won't have to go back and view your old votes to make sure I don't have to cut anything.

It's good how you did it, but I think for clarity's sake, we should add a bit about Plo Koon:

*Regarding the 2002 Saga Deluxe Speeder Bike, previously you had told us the tooling for it had been misplaced in one of the factories you work with, and since around that time the only Speeder Bike mold released has been the 1983 Kenner version. However, in recently-released Hasbro imagery, the new AT-AT is shown with that '02 Saga Speeder Bike in Hoth colors, and this is present in both the boxed and loose pictures, conspicuously around the same time that the bike's '03 Clone Wars remold is getting reused for Plo Koon's bike as well. Has the '02 Saga Speeder Bike tooling actually been found after years of searching, and if so, what's the story behind that discovery? (We're picturing Derryl swinging through warehouse aisles via whip checking nondescript slab after giant metal slab a la Indiana Jones.) If the tooling really has been found, why has the Hoth Assault battle pack been shown with the old '83 version? And will the newer Speeder Bike finally be used for a screen-accurate ROTJ bike in the near future?Clarity I guess, but it also needs a rewrite about the imagery now that there's been separate confirmation, so I changed it up a little.

A new question for the EU fans out there (of which I'm not one but I still think it's worth asking):

Since we're on the topic of Star Wars anniversaries, May 1st, 2011 will mark the 20th anniversary of the release of Timothy Zahn's novel, Heir to the Empire. Whether you love the Expanded Universe or hate it, you can't argue that this is the book that really started it all, so it deserves some sort of recognition and maybe even some action figure love. With that in mind, would you consider doing some sort of commemorative set or just slipping a few HTTE-themed figures into one of The Vintage Collection waves?

Even if they just respond with "we have no plans at this time..." it might be worth at least planting the seed.Alright, though I'm seeing conflicting info between Amazon and the ISBN info and Wookieepedia data for the month. I'm sticking with May though, it's more elegant. ;)

bigbarada

05-28-2010, 10:11 PM

Alright, though I'm seeing conflicting info between Amazon and the ISBN info and Wookieepedia data for the month. I'm sticking with May though, it's more elegant. ;)

Cool, then go ahead and count my vote for it.

Darth Metalmute

05-28-2010, 10:37 PM

Question 20 added.

I'll include it since the question mentions the upcoming battle pack as well and the question has a rewrite going anyway. But they pull that crap all the time, look at Vader or Plo Koon being on the shelves in multiple iterations. I can't buy the '83 mold again, it's far outlived its usefulness, and have told Hasbro as much in Q&A.

That all said, they could just as easily come back and say they found the tooling after the TRU sets were delivered, or that they were run at different factories, or that the '02 version was being run for the AT-AT so it couldn't be used at the same time for the TRU set. All of those are reasonable, and not what I'd consider a "slap in the face". $20 for a deluxe fig & vehicle at TRU, that is a slap in the face.

The "slap in the face" is more for the fact that the ROTJ speeder bike is the most iconic of all the speeder bikes. (EU, Clone Wars, ESB, or prequals) And yet, to the best of my knowledge, has not received the updated mold. They have done it for all the other appearances, except the one where it matters. $20 dollars for a deluxe fig & bike is more like a "kick in the groin".:sad:

When you add new votes, please don't list your old votes again in this manner, just post the new vote, that way I won't have to go back and view your old votes to make sure I don't have to cut anything.

Sorry about that. I thought I read somewhere to do it that way. I must have skipped over the word don't. :confused:

I'll add 20 to my vote.

JediTricks

05-31-2010, 04:29 PM

This is the last week of this round.

The "slap in the face" is more for the fact that the ROTJ speeder bike is the most iconic of all the speeder bikes. (EU, Clone Wars, ESB, or prequals) And yet, to the best of my knowledge, has not received the updated mold. They have done it for all the other appearances, except the one where it matters. $20 dollars for a deluxe fig & bike is more like a "kick in the groin".:sad:I've always felt the Saga version was ROTJ-colored enough to consider it a done deal, even if it is missing the poncho on the back and has a Republic logo. That they never re-released it is the real bummer, and that it doesn't display well because it has no hover stand.

Sorry about that. I thought I read somewhere to do it that way. I must have skipped over the word don't. :confused:I think what happened is you mistook changing votes for adding votes. When someone wants to CHANGE a vote, I need them to tell me which votes they are removing as well as adding.

I'll add 20 to my vote.Poifect!

JediTricks

06-02-2010, 03:32 PM

Question 11 has been struck, which 8 of you have voted for, due to a Q&A answer that just came in. If you are among the 8 that voted for it, consider yourself refunded 1 vote. Here is the answer, from Lightspeed, the german Star Wars site:
lichtgeschwindigkeit.de: With all the rumors flying around, let's assume we will get an updated SLAVE I in Clone Wars deco. Can we assume to see a SLAVE I in ESB paint deco at a later date? And would it include a Han in carbonite as a tribute to the Vintage release?
Hasbro: You are correct in assuming that if a new Slave I was coming, it would be in Clone Wars deco given the appearance in the Clone Wars series. As to whether another one (perhaps in EpV deco) was to come later, it would have to depend on how the first one did. The EpV version would also likely be a few years off in the future.
On a personal note... A few years? Ouch! I likely won't be holding back on the initial release then.

In other news, I just got the CS Q&A, it's being posted now, but I think fans of belts and astromech legs will be happy to read Hasbro's response to our ideas.

Mr. JabbaJohnL

06-02-2010, 04:33 PM

Okay, so now that my vote for 11 is gone, change it to a vote for 18.

JediTricks

06-02-2010, 04:36 PM

Okay, so now that my vote for 11 is gone, change it to a vote for 18.
Done.

The voting is going a surprising route this round. With only around a day left, I am not at all sure what's going to get asked.

Here are my votes, and once again this was very difficult to pare down to 4 choices:
1 droid limbs
13 sl bds
18 bike
20 htte

Darth Metalmute

06-02-2010, 07:03 PM

I'll replace 11 with 19.

DarkJedi5

06-02-2010, 08:15 PM

I would like to vote for 5 and 9 in addition to my two previous votes.

JediTricks

06-03-2010, 03:50 PM

Today is the last day to vote in this round. The round is quite tight, so any vote could sway a question into getting asked.

JediTricks

06-04-2010, 12:01 AM

Well, that's it for this round. Thanks to everybody who participated.

Here are the questions we're asking this round:

Questions from SirStevesGuide.com:
1) Hasbro hasn't really elaborated on your take of the most recent ToyFare Star Wars fans' choice poll finalists, other than to say in a very broad sense that it was clear collectors were most interested in all-new characters over resculpts and that the results would provide a "road map" for future lineups. So specifically, apart from Jocasta Nu and Jaxxon whom you've already addressed, are there any totally unlikely candidates on the list such as the Queen / handmaiden figures? Any choices that really made you wince because you know they would be retail poison? If you want to avoid giving away too much info now by addressing each character individually could you at least tell us how many characters from each source (i.e. OT, PT and EU) off the finalists list will be turned into figures in the next 18 months or so?
2) One of your answers from the April 8th round said that, as we expected, due to the troubles with running changes, there will be no more of those running-change figures. The statement is clear, running changes from wave to wave didn't work out too well during the TLC line, but it leaves open the question of whether simultaneous, planned production variations could be released concurrently within the same wave. The line has done so before, similar to the way the TSC line's Endor Rebel Troopers were released, or some Saga Legends troopers, the Imperial Officer head variants, the Clone Wars Micro Series clones; and the GI Joe line has more recently had success with concurrently-released chase figures as well. While concurrent variants do make specifics a little tougher to get, it provides a lot more flexibility for army-building troops without waiting years to release a variant. So would those sorts of simultaneous-production, same-wave variant figures still be a possibility, or do these go down in flames along with the running change figures?
Questions from CollectionStation.com:
1) Recent Hasbro images show the upcoming Saga Legends Battle Droid 2-pack both using the mold based on the new Battle Droid figures from the Target Geonosis Arena Showdown sets. Is that what we will actually be used to make this Saga Legends 2-pack? If so, will we see any of the issues we raised in a previous Q&A addressed, like a left arm that can hold the blaster similar to the Clone Wars Firefighter Droid, or properly-sized eyes for every droid, or the neck piece facing the right way? Also, will we be seeing any running deco changes on this set, switching from Geonosis red to Naboo tan? Will there always be a commander droid and a regular grunt? Army-building Battle Droids only in red and at a 1:1 ratio with their commanders would be quite limiting, and many previous Saga Legends army builders have enjoyed running changes like this without any problems expressed.
2) Have you considered taking figures from the Comic Packs and putting them together into Battlepacks with perhaps 1 new figure, and making these sets exclusive to someone more focused on a comic-friendly audience, such as Diamond Distribution or one of the many fine e-tailers out there? This could help spur interest in the line along and satiate EU fans who crave more of their favorite characters. Star Wars comics still have a big audience, SW: Legacy is Dark Horse's 2nd best-selling line (despite the line apparently ending soon). If not Battlepacks, what about more Comic 2 Packs exclusive to those outlets with more focus on reusing the parts created for the line for new characters or at least character updates, since they're not likely to get used in the mainline?